I was too emotional - Chelsea star sheds light on previous struggles at boyhood club

Chelsea centre-back Levi Colwill has discussed his emotional development and experiences as an Academy graduate in the first team. 

Speaking from Miami, where the team were preparing for their Club World Cup round of 16 against Benfica, the Englishman reflected on the pressure associated with his deep connection to the club, having joined as an under-9.

Colwill admitted that last season, his strong emotional bond with Chelsea sometimes clouded his on-pitch judgement. 

This season, however, he discussed consciously separating his emotional connection from his professional performance, focusing on maintaining calmness to maximise his contribution to the team. 

“Last season, I was getting myself so emotional because of the connection [I have with the club]. It was clouding my judgment of how I play,” said the defender.

“This season, I broke it in two: I want to help the team as much as possible, but I have to stay emotionally calm, be the person I am, and not get dragged into getting angry or something like that because we're not winning.

“I need to stay calm so I can help the team as much as possible.”

The 22-year-old played 23 times in the Premier League last term and 32 in all competitions, numbers that improved to 35 and 40 respectively in 2024-25. 

The former on-loan Brighton defender has played 72 times in all competitions for his boyhood club before their Club World Cup clash with Benfica.

Chelsea could face Palmeiras or Botafogo in the quarter-final of the Club World Cup if they beat Benfica on Saturday.